The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to pray for leaders and demonstrate high level patriotism to foster national unity and progress.

The agency’s state Director in Jigawa State, Ahmed Ibrahim, said this in a message to mark the 66th independence anniversary.

The message was signed by the Head of Media and Communication, Sarah Ogodo, on Thursday in Dutse.

Mr Ibrahim enjoined the citizens to speak positively about Nigeria, remain law-abiding and discharge their civic responsibilities.

He also urged Nigerians to support government’s policies and programmes aimed at promoting peace, unity, security and national development.

The director urged the citizens to remain hopeful and shun violence, fake news and acts capable of undermining national cohesion.

Mr Ibrahim described Jigawa citizens as resilient, peaceful and patriotic, stressing that they remained steadfast through challenges and triumphs of nation-building.

“These attributes are inherent in Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora, which have enabled us to sail through a series of hurdles in our journey to nation-building,” he said.

He described the 66th anniversary as a celebration of Nigeria’s unity, diversity, strength and collective hope.

He prayed for continued peace, unity and prosperity in the state and the country at large.

(NAN)